Life Lessons from Ramayana

We all have heard the story of Ramayana. Our grand-parents, parents, teachers often narrate us this story, right? But did we really take the time to understand the underlying philosophy of this epic? Is ‘good wins over evil’ the only lesson it contains? Obviously not! This great epic is great because its every incident is a great life lesson. On this festive occasion, here we look at some incidents and the related life lessons.

AVOIDING BAD COMPANY

People of Ayodhya knew that Kaikeyi loved Lord Rama, even more than her own son Bharat. So how could she ask her husband to honor his promise and send Lord Rama into exile? This change in her mindset was brought about due to her association with a bad person. Mantara, who was an evil lady poisoned Kaikeyi’s mind.

Hence in life we should always stay away from bad people as their company will not only harm us but also our near and dear ones. Bad company can never benefit us. Bad company can never end in good. It can only harm us. So bad peer pressure must be avoided at all costs.

HONOURING PROMISES

Source: wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/

King Dashrath was heartbroken when Kaikeyi asked him to fulfill the two promises. But being a true and honest person, he honoured them. So, Lord Rama promised his father to honour his promise. And when Bharat came to get his brother and the real king back, Lord Rama didn’t return as he wanted to honour the promise he made to his father.

Same way in life, there are always two ways. The right way and the easy way. The right way may not be easy, yet it’s definitely worth it. In the long run fulfilling our promises will not only give us inner satisfaction and happiness, but also earn us the love and respect of others. So always chose the right way and honour the promises you make to others.

FAMILY LOVE

When Lord Rama was exiled, his brother Laxman and wife Sita decided to join him. Why did they leave all the luxuries of a royal life and embarked upon a hard journey of 14 years in a cruel forest? They didn’t need to go and live in a forest but still they decided to. Why?

The answer is love and duty. Both of them considered it their duty to accompany Lord Rama. Moreover, their love for Lord Rama was so great that they didn’t think of the hardships they will face. Same way in life we should be devoted to our family. We should love and respect them. Remember, caring for our family is our first and foremost duty.

~ Priya Sarin, Author